Diabetes, as previously mentioned, is a risk factor for periodontal disease. Diabetes is known to cause an increase in vulnerability to infections, inflammation, …show more content…
Going back to the risk factors for dental caries, diabetes is known to cause Xerostomia, which is a common problem linked to diabetes in addition to other systemic diseases. Diabetes is known to affect the function of the salivary glands, limiting the secretory capability of the glands (Offenbacher, Southerland, & Taylor, 2005, p.174). Saliva is an important aid to oral health as it assists in neutralizing the acidic levels and wash away some bacteria that would otherwise adhere to the teeth’s dry surfaces. Xerostomia can also lead to enlarged parotid glands, inflammation of the lips, tongue and buccal mucosa (cheeks), infection of the salivary glands, halitosis (bad breath), and cracking of the oral mucosa (Offenbacher et al., …show more content…
The study subjects were grouped into one of three groups: individuals who had periodontal disease treatment, individuals who had at least one other dental treatment (whether it be restorative, prosthetic or surgical), and finally, individuals who received no dental treatment. The medical cost for each group was calculated after a two-year period and displayed a reduction of cost when individuals who had periodontal treatment in the first year of the study were compared to those who were only treated in the second year. Those treated for periodontal disease with diabetes displayed a 9% associated reduction of in overall medical costs, CAD showed 16%, and CVD showed